Vehicle Segment:
Compact Executive Sedan/Coupe
Competitors:
Mercedes-Benz 190E, Audi 80/90, Alfa Romeo Alfetta, Volvo 240
Driving Dynamics:
Renowned for its balanced chassis, rear-wheel drive, and engaging driving experience.
Engine Type:
Inline-6 cylinder, known for smoothness and durability.
Target Audience:
BMW enthusiasts, DIY mechanics, restoration specialists, classic car owners.
Benefit Statement:
Provides the essential knowledge and procedures to maintain, repair, and restore the BMW E30 325, 325e, and 325es to peak condition.
Engine:
M20 6-cylinder (2.7L M20B27 for 'e'/'es' models), including fuel injection, ignition, cooling, lubrication, emissions control.
Transmission:
Manual (Getrag 260) and Automatic (ZF 4HP22) transmissions, including overhaul and adjustments.
Drivetrain:
Clutch, driveshaft, differential, axles, wheel bearings.
Suspension:
Front and rear suspension systems, shock absorbers, springs, control arms, bushings.
Brakes:
Front discs, rear drums (standard on 325e/es), ABS (optional on some models), hydraulic system, parking brake.
Steering:
Power steering system, steering rack, steering column.
Electrical:
Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system (starter), lighting, ignition system, fuse box, relays, wiring diagrams.
Body:
Body panels, doors, hood, trunk, glass, seals, interior trim, chassis repair.
Heating And Cooling:
HVAC system, heater core, A/C system (if equipped), blower motor.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank, fuel pump, fuel injectors, fuel lines, fuel pressure regulator.
Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, coolant flushes, spark plug replacement, belt adjustments, brake fluid changes.
Troubleshooting:
Diagnostic procedures for common and complex issues, symptom-based troubleshooting guides.
Repair:
Engine overhaul, transmission rebuild, brake caliper replacement, suspension component repair, electrical component diagnosis and repair.
Rebuilding:
Detailed instructions for rebuilding engine components, transmissions, and other major assemblies.
Restoration:
Guidance on refurbishing and restoring various parts of the vehicle.
Depth:
Comprehensive, covering from basic routine maintenance to complete engine and transmission rebuilds.
Diagnostics:
In-depth diagnostic procedures, including electrical system testing and component identification.
Specifications:
Detailed torque specifications, clearances, fluid capacities, and electrical data.
Displacement:
2693 cc (2.7 Liters)
Configuration:
Inline 6-cylinder, SOHC
Bore X Stroke:
84.0 mm x 81.0 mm
Compression Ratio:
8.5:1 (325e/es)
Horsepower:
121 hp @ 4800 rpm (325e); 124 hp @ 4800 rpm (325es)
Torque:
170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (325e); 170 lb-ft @ 3250 rpm (325es)
Fuel Delivery:
Bosch L-Jetronic or Motronic electronic fuel injection.
Fuel Type:
Unleaded Gasoline
Coolant Type:
BMW recommends ethylene glycol-based coolant with corrosion inhibitors (e.g., G48).
Oil Type:
SAE 10W-40 or 15W-40 API SF/SG rated oil.
Ignition System:
Distributor-based electronic ignition.
Type 325E 325Es:
4-speed Automatic (ZF 4HP22)
Type 325E 325Es:
5-speed Manual (Getrag 260)
Manual Clutch:
Hydraulically actuated single-plate dry clutch.
Automatic Transmission Fluid:
Dexron III or equivalent ATF (refer to manual for specific BMW specification).
Manual Transmission Fluid:
API GL-4, SAE 75W-90 synthetic gear oil.
Oil Change Interval:
Every 5,000-7,500 miles (8,000-12,000 km) or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.
Air Filter Replacement:
Every 15,000-20,000 miles (24,000-32,000 km).
Spark Plug Replacement:
Every 30,000 miles (48,000 km) with appropriate plugs (e.g., Bosch W8DP). Refer to manual for specific type.
Timing Belt Replacement:
Crucial maintenance item: every 40,000-50,000 miles (64,000-80,000 km) or 4-5 years due to potential catastrophic engine failure if it breaks.
Coolant Capacity:
Approx. 9.5 Quarts (9.0 Liters)
Brake Fluid Type:
DOT 3 or DOT 4, low-viscosity.
Power Steering Fluid:
ATF Dexron II/III or Pentosin CHF 7.1 (verify specific requirement in manual).
Fuel Injector Seals:
Can degrade and cause vacuum leaks or misfires.
Heater Control Valve:
Common failure point, leading to no heat or inconsistent temperature control.
O2 Sensor:
Durability can be an issue, affecting fuel economy and emissions.
Oil Pan Gasket Leak:
Common due to age and material degradation.
Rubber Bushings:
Suspension and steering bushings often wear out, affecting handling and ride quality.
Bmw Philosophy:
Founded on engineering excellence, driving pleasure ('The Ultimate Driving Machine').
E30 Introduction:
The E30 platform was introduced in 1982, succeeding the E21. The 325e/es models were introduced in the US market for 1984.
325E Development:
The 'e' designation stood for 'eta' (η), referring to the efficient, long-stroke M20B27 engine designed for better fuel economy and torque, often referred to as the 'Super Eta'.
325Es Development:
The 'es' was the sportier version of the 'e' model, typically featuring sport seats, a closer-ratio transmission (often manual), and sport suspension as standard.
Production Period:
1982-1994 (E30 platform), 1984-1987 (325e/es specific to US market).
Car And Driver Ten Best:
The E30 chassis, including variants like the 325i, frequently appeared on Car and Driver's '10 Best' lists in the mid-to-late 1980s.
Contemporary Reviews:
Consistently praised for its handling, build quality, and performance relative to its class.
Automotive Press Acclaim:
Widely regarded as one of the best driver's cars of its era, cementing BMW's reputation for sport sedans.
